What is lymphedema?

During breast cancer surgery (mastectomy or lumpectomy), some of the lymph nodes in your underarm (called axillary lymph nodes) may be removed. They are checked to see if they contain cancer cells.

When axillary lymph nodes are removed during breast surgery (with sentinel node biopsy or axillary dissection) or are treated with radiation therapy, some of the lymph vessels can become blocked. This may prevent lymph fluid from leaving the area.

Lymphedema occurs when lymph fluid collects in the arm (or other area such as the hand, fingers, chest or back), causing it to swell (edema).

The swelling may be so slight it’s barely seen or felt. Or, it may be so great the arm grows very large.

In severe cases, lymphedema can cause pain and limit movement. Also, it can be quite upsetting to have one arm become larger than the other, even if the change is small.

Other treatments for lymphedema, such as lymph node transfer and lymphovenous bypass, are under study [42-43].

Exercise

In the past, there was some concern exercise might increase the risk of lymphedema in breast cancer survivors and worsen symptoms in those who developed the condition.

However, after recovery from breast surgery, arm exercises (such as weight-lifting) don’t appear to increase the risk of lymphedema [39,44-46]. (It's best to avoid strenuous exercise right after breast surgery though.)

Studies also show weight-lifting (moderate, in a supervised setting) can reduce symptoms in survivors with lymphedema, as well as improve body image, sexuality and physical strength [39,46-49].

Talk with your health care provider before starting an exercise program to manage lymphedema.

Air travel and duration of flights do not appear to increase the risk of lymphedema [26]. However, if you have a long flight, it may be helpful to wear a compression sleeve and to massage the arm during the flight [50].

A note if you are traveling by air

Susan G. Komen® wants to ensure people who have breast cancer are treated with respect and dignity.

When you travel by air, these steps may be helpful:

Arrive at the airport earlier than usual, so you have time to go through secondary screening if needed.

If you are concerned about going through the body scanner for any reason, request a private pat-down screening.

If you choose, or are selected for, a pat-down screening, you may request a private screening away from public areas.

If you feel comfortable, tell the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agent you are undergoing or have had breast cancer treatment. If you prefer to give this information discreetly, the TSA has a notification card you can give to the agent (find this card on the TSA website).

If you wear a compression sleeve, you don't need to remove it, but you may need to be screened with a hand-held metal detector and may need to be patted down.

If you feel uncomfortable for any reason, it's always OK to ask to talk with a TSA supervisor.